The popular manga series The Apothecary Diaries is going on another hiatus as illustrator Nekokurage takes a break due to health issues. The announcement came just ahead of the May 23 release of Square Enix’s Big Gangan magazine, where the latest chapter was originally scheduled to appear.
According to a statement from Nekokurage shared by fans online, the artist is recovering from strep throat and whooping cough, illnesses that made it impossible to complete work on the current manuscript. “I’m sorry…! Both strep throat and whooping cough have been going around lately, so be careful please!” the artist wrote.
As a result, the manga will be absent from the May 23 issue of Big Gangan and is now expected to return in the following issue on June 25. While the break is short, it comes at a time of increased anticipation. The anime adaptation has significantly boosted the series’ popularity, attracting new readers worldwide who are eager for the next chapter in Maomao’s journey through palace politics and intrigue.
This isn’t the first delay for The Apothecary Diaries, but it marks a more serious pause than previous short breaks. The demanding production schedules in the manga industry have long taken a toll on creators, making health-related delays a recurring concern.
Despite the interruption, fans are urged to be patient and supportive. The series’ detailed art and carefully crafted storylines require time and care—especially when the artist’s health is at stake. A short pause now could help preserve the quality that has made the manga a standout in the historical mystery genre.
Importantly, this hiatus affects only the manga. The anime and light novel release schedules remain unchanged, giving fans other ways to stay connected with the story during the break. As readers await the manga’s return, it’s also a chance to reflect on the intense work behind the scenes—and to wish Nekokurage a full and speedy recovery.
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